U.A.E. Adapter Type?
 

Hello:

What kind of adapter do I need for the U.A.E. I was looking at some the other day but am still unsure. Have read that the plugs are like the three-prong U.K. but have also read that it is a two-prong.

Also, could someone please recommend a good voltage converter for things like laptop/camcorder? Most of the one's I have seen were more for small personal items (i.e. shaver).

Thank you.

Looks like it's either the UK-type squarish one, or the continental europe-type round 2-pronger:

http://kropla.com/electric2.htm

You should be fine if you just carry those two.

As for converters, the VAST majority of laptop computers, camcorders and similar high-tech gizmos come with multi-system AC adapters, so all you need is a physical plug adapter (not a voltage converter). Check the power brick for your laptop and your camcorder. My guess is that both will say something like 110-240v, 50-60hz. If it's limited to voltage in the 100's at 60hz, then you need a converter. Otherwise, you should be fine.

Thanks for the information.

Even in this unlikely case it's better to get another 'power brick' for the correct target voltage, as high-voltage transformers are heavy and bulky and chaining them up (110:220 and then 220:20 or whatever your laptop uses) is generally not a good idea.

In the UAE, they use the type of plugs used in the U.K. (i.e. three-prong type). I would get one of those universal adaptors sold on planes; they really do come in very handy. Additionally, I was not aware that laptops/camcorders/shavers/etc needed voltage converters.

I was in Dubai last month and my continental europe-type round 2-pronger worked fine at my hotel (Park Hyatt). Also, I've found that most of the nicer hotels in Middle East (who cater to business clientele) have adaptor plugs (and transformers for that matter) available for guests to borrow in the event you forget one, or lose it, or, as in my case, have it confiscated by security police at the border (this occurred at another ME country for reasons I still can't figure out except for harassment purposes).

Indeed RMC500. I have noticed that at a few hotels in the Middle East too. Sorry that "ME" country confiscated your adaptor; not fun at all...*%@*...

Thanks for the replies everyone.

www.magellans.com

They sell lots of travel-related stuff, including what you're looking for.

All good hotels in the UAE supply adapters, most have multiple sockets, and if you need to buy one - get it there for a couple of bucks...